The term "McManison" was popularized during the boom in the real estate market.  Dictionary.com defines the term as 'an excessively large home built on relatively small acreage', synonymous to 'starter castle'.  As Americans purchasing power increased during the market buildup so did their desire to have a larger home.

Are the days of the McMansion over?  CBS MarketWatch reports that the average square footage of a new home is down to 2,480 from 2,520.  If this trend continues buyers may look towards more efficient homes and pay less attention to owning the largest home on the block.